We work closely with Gavi to strengthen vaccination programmes in low-income countries so that vaccines reach those who need them most. We must meet today’s and tomorrow’s health challenges.
Gunn Jorid Roset
Director General of Norad
Vaccines Save More Lives Than Ever Before
Vaccination at a health center in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – part of UNICEF’s efforts to strengthen child health.
Norwegian support for vaccines saved 1.7 million lives in 2024.
– This shows that Norwegian aid delivers life-saving results. Vaccines are among the most cost-effective tools we have to save lives, says Norad’s Director General Gunn Jorid Roset.
A new report from the vaccine alliance Gavi shows that Gavi-supported vaccines helped save 1.7 million lives – 400,000 more than the year before. Norway has been a key supporter since Gavi was founded in 2000, contributing more than NOK 20 billion to date.
Norway is not only a major donor to Gavi – we are also a strategic partner. Through Norad, Norway provides technical advice, results measurement, and follow-up of investments. The goal is to ensure that every “aid krone” has the greatest possible impact.
Visit from the Gavi CEO
Minister of International Development Åsmund Aukrust recently met Gavi’s CEO, Dr. Sania Nishtar, in Oslo. She brought with her the new report documenting the record results from 2024.
– Norwegian aid for vaccines delivers strong results and long-term impact, with record achievements last year. That is why vaccine programmes and their integration into national health systems are high priorities for Norway. Norway will remain a strong advocate to ensure more children gain access to vaccines and basic health services, says Aukrust.
He also emphasized the need for reform and greater efficiency within global health, especially in light of international aid cuts.
Everyone must help ensure that the remaining funds are used as effectively as possible so that even more lives can be protected.
Åsmund Aukrust
Minister of International Development
Malaria Vaccine Brings Hope
The rollout of the malaria vaccine continued in 2024, and by August 2025, over 25 million malaria vaccine doses had been delivered to 21 African countries with Gavi support. The vaccine protects millions of children from a disease that claims thousands of lives every year. At the same time, vaccination rates have increased in several vulnerable countries such as Mali, Haiti, and Syria.
– This shows how innovation and international cooperation can deliver tangible results. When vaccines become available, we save lives – and give children the opportunity to grow up healthy, says Roset.